Research into fatigue

Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2002 Jun;16(3):619-28. doi: 10.1016/s0889-8588(02)00012-6.

Abstract

Evaluation and treatment of fatigue in cancer patients requires a multidisciplinary approach because it has many possible etiologies and several contributing factors. A comprehensive approach is required, especially for patients with moderate to severe fatigue, so that all possible contributing factors can be determined and an appropriate treatment plan can be created. New agents for the management of fatigue need to be evaluated in large, controlled, clinical trials. The short- and long-term effects of an exercise program on the fatigue levels and overall physical performance of cancer patients should be assessed in new studies. Clearly, much more research is needed not only to identify factors responsible for the fatigue but also to develop effective interventions for cancer-related fatigue.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Algorithms
  • Anemia / etiology
  • Anemia / therapy
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / therapeutic use
  • Decision Trees
  • Exercise Therapy
  • Fatigue / diagnosis
  • Fatigue / etiology*
  • Fatigue / physiopathology
  • Fatigue / psychology
  • Fatigue / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Mass Screening
  • Neoplasms / complications*
  • Palliative Care / methods*
  • Palliative Care / psychology
  • Palliative Care / standards
  • Patient Care Planning
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Quality of Life
  • Research
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants